Turn UC San Diego into a playable map: follow clues on your phone to find 13 outdoor artworks from the Stuart Collection. This 1–3 hour self-guided scavenger hunt blends public art, campus history, and light urban walking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the sidewalk into a university that treats art like public infrastructure — concrete forms, steel curves and playful interventions scattered between academic buildings and palm shadows. The smartphone in your hand pings the first clue; the campus becomes a gameboard as you thread between plazas and lawns toward the next sculpture.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with moderate fitness who can walk on paved and slightly uneven surfaces for up to three hours.
Wildlife
History
The Stuart Collection began in 1981 to site contemporary public art across UCSD’s growing campus, commissioning works that interact with architecture and public space.
Conservation
Follow campus guidelines by staying on paths and carrying out waste; public art preservation depends on visitor respect and minimal physical interaction.
Reserve your spot on the UCSD Art Tour Puzzling Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a charged smartphone
The experience runs on a mobile app and requires cellular data; offline maps won’t replace clue access.
Wear grippy, comfortable shoes
Paths include steps, plazas, and short grass — sturdy walking shoes keep the pace steady.
Watch for class-change crowds
Campus sidewalks get busy between classes; start early to avoid bottlenecks and noise during clues.
Team size and booking
One booking covers a team up to 12 people — coordinate a single leader to manage the app and clues.
Smartphone with data plan
Required to receive clues, navigate the route, and complete the scavenger challenges.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear handles pavement, steps, and grassy patches across campus.
Portable power bank
Keeps your phone charged through photo stops and multi-hour gameplay.
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated is key, especially during warm afternoons and lengthy walks.
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